Exploring the Mental Health Landscape of Partners of Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Research Study

My name is Laura Lewis and I am a nurse researcher at the University of Vermont. On a personal note, I am also the family member of an adult with ASD. I am looking for individuals who might be willing to participate in a research study about the mental health of partners of adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The study is titled, “Exploring the Mental Health Landscape of Partners of Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder.”

I am looking for individuals who believe their partner has ASD (may be formally, informally, or self-diagnosed, and partner does not necessarily need to be aware that you believe he or she has ASD). You must be 18 years or older to participate. You must have been in a relationship with this person for at least 1 year. Participation is entirely online and includes answering questions about your health and your relationship. It will likely take about 60 minutes to complete.

Please note, this study examines ways in which neuro-mixed relationships affect overall health and mental health of neurotypical partners. Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders DO NOT CAUSE mental health disorders in their partners, and partners should never be BLAMED for issues within the relationship. Domestic abuse is NOT caused by Autism Spectrum Disorder and is unacceptable in any relationship. I plan to follow up on this study with a study on how neuro-mixed relationships affect overall health and mental health of partners with Autism Spectrum Disorder, coming soon. My intention is to work on ways to improve neuro-mixed relationships FOR BOTH PARTNERS. Please contact me directly if you have any questions about this study. I can be reached by email at: Laura.Lewis@uvm.edu or by phone at (802) 656-3601.